GWHVA Summit 2026: Full Schedule

TBA

Campfire + S'mores

Friday October 9, 2026 TBA

There’s no better place to end a day outdoors than around a campfire. Join us for s’mores, stories, laughter, and relaxed conversation as we unwind together. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or meeting someone new, this is your chance to slow down and enjoy one of Summit’s favorite traditions.

Friday October 9, 2026 TBA
TBA

Summit-Wide Activity | All Welcome

1:30pm EDT

Boating

Friday October 9, 2026 1:30pm - 4:30pm EDT

TBA

Get out on the water for a fun and relaxing boating experience. Enjoy the fresh air, scenic views, and a slower pace as you explore the lake with fellow Summit attendees. Equipment and basic instruction will be provided.

Friday October 9, 2026 1:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
TBA

Saturday Afternoon Drop-In Session

2:00pm EDT

Dogs on the Trail

Friday October 9, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

TBA

Hiking is better with your dog by your side! This session will cover tips for safely and confidently hitting the trail with your four-legged adventure buddy. Learn about trail etiquette, packing essentials for your pup, hydration and nutrition, and how to choose dog-friendly hikes. Whether you’re new to hiking with your dog or looking to improve your routine, you’ll leave feeling prepared for...
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Friday October 9, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

Saturday Afternoon Drop-In Session

7:00pm EDT

Opening Session

Friday October 9, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm EDT

Scott Hall

Every adventure begins with a single step—and this weekend is no different. Join us as we kick off the Summit by welcoming old friends, meeting new ones, and setting the tone for an unforgettable weekend together. Through stories, reflection, and interactive conversation, we'll explore the idea that we can do hard things—on the trail, in our everyday lives, and within ourselves. Whether you're...
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Friday October 9, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm EDT
Scott Hall

Summit-Wide Activity

8:15pm EDT

GWHVA Trivia

Friday October 9, 2026 8:15pm - 9:30pm EDT

Dining Hall

Think you've got what it takes to be Summit Trivia Champion? Test your knowledge of the outdoors, national parks, wildlife, hiking, camping, pop culture, and maybe even a little GWHVA history. Expect lots of laughs and just enough friendly competition!

Friday October 9, 2026 8:15pm - 9:30pm EDT
Dining Hall

Summit-Wide Activity | All Welcome

9:00am EDT

Backpacking Kitchen/Cooking

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT

TBA

Limited Capacity seats available

Learn the basics of setting up a backcountry camp kitchen, from cooking gear and utensils to water treatment and meal planning. We’ll explore backpacking food options—both store-bought and DIY—along with tips for saving money and accommodating dietary needs. The workshop includes a demo of a backpacking stove and water filtration system to help you feel prepared and confident on the trail.

Moderators

Arts & Crafts Village (picnic tables)

Speakers

Lori Lawson

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
TBA

9:00am EDT

Beginner Backpacking

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT

TBA

Limited Capacity seats available

This workshop is designeThis workshop is designed to empower women who are new to backpacking with the knowledge and confidence to hit the trail safely and successfully. We'll cover the basics of essential backpacking gear and how to pack it efficiently—along with key safety practices, from navigating the backcountry to staying prepared for changing conditions. Participants will also learn how...
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Moderators

Overlook Hill

Speakers

Tasha McKelvey

Backpacker, Ceramic Artist, Community Garden Steward & GWHVA Programming Director

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
TBA

9:00am EDT

Fire Building

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT

TBA

Limited Capacity seats available

Fire brings people together, gives hope, and serves as a lifegiving and lifesaving tool in the wilderness. Learn the art of fire making by exploring basic (and creative!) tools and techniques to build, start, and maintain a fire. The class will culminate in a firendly fire building competition and everyone will create a firestarting kit of their own.

Moderators

Wilderness Survival Area

Speakers

Rebbecca Jackson

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
TBA

9:00am EDT

Orienteering

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT

TBA

Limited Capacity seats available

Lost signal? No problem. In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to read a map, use a compass, and build the skills to confidently navigate trails the old-school way. Perfect for beginners and anyone who wants to feel a little more self-reliant (and a lot less reliant on Google Maps).

Moderators

Drama Theatre

Speakers

Camp Friendship

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
TBA

9:00am EDT

Survival Skills

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT

TBA

Limited Capacity seats available

Could you make it through a night in the woods with just what’s in your pack? In this session, you’ll learn essential survival skills that every hiker should have. From building a fire to finding shelter, to navigation basics that can help you get back home—this session is all about equipping you with the confidence and know-how to stay safe in the wild.

Moderators

Rivanna Pavilion

Speakers

Camp Friendship

Saturday October 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
TBA

1:00pm EDT

Camp Friendship Hike #1

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT

TBA

Limited Capacity seats available

Get out and explore. These guided hikes offer a chance to experience the trails right outside your door while connecting with others. Routes will vary in length and difficulty, making them accessible for a range of experience levels. Come for the movement, stay for the views, and leave feeling a little more grounded.

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
TBA

On-Property Hike

1:00pm EDT

GWHVA + Camp Friendship Merch Shop

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

Camp Store

Open throughout the weekend, the GWHVA Merch Shop is your one-stop destination for exclusive Summit gear, apparel, and accessories. While you're there, be sure to browse Camp Friendship's merchandise, featuring camp apparel, gifts, and souvenirs. Stop in anytime during the posted hours to shop and take home a little piece of Summit and Camp Friendship!

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Camp Store

Merch Shop

1:00pm EDT

Archery

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

TBA

Give archery a shot! Learn the fundamentals of stance, aiming, and shooting while enjoying one of the oldest outdoor sports. No previous experience is necessary. just bring your curiosity and willingness to try something new.

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
TBA

Saturday Afternoon Drop-In Session

1:00pm EDT

Girls Who Craft

Saturday October 10, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm EDT

Arts & Crafts Village

Take a break, get creative, and make something to take home! Whether you're looking to unwind between sessions or spend time crafting with new friends, the Craft Corner is the perfect place to relax, create, and connect. Drop in anytime throughout the session to make one—or several—of the projects below. Projects include:🪢 Paracord Bracelets 📌 Affirmation Pins 🎨 Painted Kindness...
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Saturday October 10, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Arts & Crafts Village Arts & Crafts Village

Saturday Afternoon Drop-In Session

2:00pm EDT

Horse Grooming Experience

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:00pm - 5:00pm EDT

Horse Barn

Spend some time getting to know our equine friends! Learn the basics of horse grooming, enjoy hands-on interaction, and discover how proper care helps build trust and connection. Whether you're a lifelong horse lover or simply curious, this relaxed session offers a fun opportunity to spend time in the barn.

Saturday October 10, 2026 2:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Horse Barn

Saturday Afternoon Drop-In Session

3:00pm EDT

Camp Friendship Hike #2

LIMITED

Saturday October 10, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT

TBA

Limited Capacity seats available

Saturday October 10, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
TBA

On-Property Hike

7:15pm EDT

Backpacking Panel

Saturday October 10, 2026 7:15pm - 8:15pm EDT

Dining Hall

Curious about backpacking or looking to level up your skills? Join Girls Who Hike VA ambassadors and board members as they share real stories, hard-earned lessons, and favorite tips from the trail. Come ready to ask questions and get inspired for your next adventure.

Speakers